Doula Deja
Birth Doula
My birth philosophy is simple, information. I want you to approach your labor with all of the information that is out there so that you can make the decisions that are best for you. I want you to be able to ask questions in the labor room so that you can give truly informed consent to any interventions. I want you to ease into your recovery knowing what is best for your baby and your body.
As a Birth Doula, my goal is to help you have your best birth. Whatever level of natural or assisted birth you desire, I want to help you have that birth. I am also there to support your partner who is experiencing a major life change alongside you and often needs guidance from someone who is trained and calm.
Birth Doula Package
Free Consultation
I am available to meet you and your partner by phone, video call, or in person to discuss my services, experience, and to answer any other questions you may have about the doula/client relationship. This first consultation is free and is your chance to determine if I am a good fit for you and your birth.
Before Labor
I typically meet with a couple 3 times during pregnancy, usually around 26, 30, and 34 weeks. We spend this time getting to know each other, discussing the pregnancy, prenatal tests, what to expect from birth, and establishing your preferences for labor and delivery.
These meetings typically last 2 hours, but I never watch a clock and I let them unfold at whatever pace is natural.
If you are booking me later in pregnancy, we can accommodate by meeting more frequently, or fewer times for longer.
For the duration of your pregnancy, I am available by call, text, or email for advice, questions, concerns or just to listen as you process new information.
During Labor
I consider myself on-call for a client beginning at 38 weeks and lasting 4 weeks or until your baby is born. I take on only one client at a time. If you go into labor before 38 weeks or after 42 weeks, I will support you. Because I create so much space on my calendar for each client, the risk of labor overlap is exceedingly low. I do have a network of back up doulas, though I've (thankfully) never missed a client's birth.
I am available to my clients by phone and text as soon as labor begins. When you feel that you need the extra support of me in person, I will be there.
Some doulas require "active labor" or "establishment of a consistent labor pattern," before they will arrive. For me, if you are calling me and you feel that you need me at your side, it is because you need my support. If it is early labor, you are going to labor better knowing that knowledge and support are in the room. If it is on the way to the hospital, I will meet you there.
During labor, I have a "bag of tricks" that is both a physical bag of tools and a mental bag of ideas. I am trained in several techniques to help you cope with labor and help labor progress as smoothly as possible. I am also there to help you navigate the options, recommendations, procedures, policies, and tools that you will encounter in a hospital setting.
After Delivery
Immediately after delivery, I remain with you to help transition from birth to postpartum. I can help maintain the integrity of your "golden hour," assist early breastfeeding, and answer any questions that come up in the early moments of new parent hood.
I meet with you one time following the birth. At this meeting we process the birth story so you understand and feel confident about the way you birthed your baby. I will also check in on your postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, and answer any questions that you have about your birth or your newborn. We will address any concerns that have come up, check on your physical and emotional well-being, and ensure your transition into early-parenthood is smooth and supported.
Fees
My birth doula package is $3000, inclusive of all of the services described here.
If you are interested in combining my doula work with my private childbirth education, we can negotiate a rate that is specific to the amount of additional childbirth education you are looking to add.
Please do not let finances stand in the way of labor support. If the fee is a burden to you and your family, please contact me and we can reach an agreement that you are more comfortable with.
Contact Me
If you are interested in learning more about the possibilities of having a doula supporting you during your birth journey, please get in touch.